The Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council has officially launched its heartwarming annual Santa Appeal, now entering its impressive thirteenth year of operation.
A Legacy of Community Kindness
This beloved initiative has made a profound difference to the lives of thousands of local children on Christmas Day over the years. The programme's continued success is entirely dependent on the overwhelming support shown by residents, businesses, charities, and organisations across Rhondda Cynon Taf and beyond. Each year, these groups donate thousands of presents, ensuring that children and young people who might otherwise face a gift-less Christmas morning receive something special.
Thanks to this incredible generosity, every child identified by the council's dedicated social workers will wake up to at least one gift on Christmas Day. Donors are encouraged to thoughtfully select a gift for their chosen child. For older children on the list, gift card vouchers are a welcome and practical option if donors prefer.
How You Can Become a Santa's Helper
Supporting the 2025 Santa Appeal is a straightforward process. Those wishing to participate simply need to email Santaappeal@rctcbc.gov.uk or call 01443 425025. You then inform Santa's Helpers how many children you would like to provide a gift for this festive season.
You will be given the age and an alias name of a real child in the area to protect their identity. The Santa Appeal Donation Line opened on November 4. Lines are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Tuesday to Friday. The final date to pledge your support is Friday, December 5.
Once you have your child's details, you will be directed to your nearest gift drop-off point. All gifts must be placed in open gift bags and delivered to the collection point by Monday, December 8.
Spreading Christmas Joy Across the Community
Santa's Helpers will then collect all the donated gifts from the various locations. They work tirelessly to ensure every present is ready and waiting in homes to be opened with joy by children on Christmas Day.
Councillor Sharon Rees, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Social Care, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: "The Santa Appeal continues to have a profound impact on the lives of young people in our community every Christmas. I’m thrilled that we are able to ensure that children and young people who might otherwise go without a gift can experience the joy of Christmas morning."
She added, "I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has contributed in the past, and to those who plan to donate this year – your kindness truly makes a difference. The Santa Appeal has become a beloved tradition in Rhondda Cynon Taf."
The councillor concluded by highlighting the amazing generosity of the communities and reminding everyone that every single donation, no matter its size, helps to spread the essential Christmas spirit. Thanks to this continued support, no child in the area will be forgotten this Christmas.
